4007. Robert Southey to Edward [Hill] [fragment], [c. 27 April 1823]
MS: Keswick Museum and Art Gallery, WC 320. AL; 2p.
Unpublished.
Dating note: Dating and identity of correspondent derived from the content. Southey had heard of Edward Hill’s success by 27 April 1823, when he wrote to Herbert Hill (see Letter 4008).
By a letter which I have this day received, your Father informs me of your success.
I heartily rejoice in it, & congratulate you on the termination of the longest & severest trial of this kind which you can ever be required to undergo. – A straight & safe course is now before you; – & with only a continuance of diligence & good conduct on your own part, there is every probability that the tenour of your life will be honourable & happy for yourself, & gratifying to all those who are interested in your welfare.
I know not whether College has been altered from what it was three or four & thirty years ago; or if there be still a xxxxx greater degree of tyranny going the on there, than can ever exist among the town boys. [MS missing]t it is much the same, & varies according as the majority of the Seniors happen to be of good or bad dispositions. If you should have any temporary hardships to endure from this cause, make you a firm determination that you will never exercise upon others such injustice as you have suffered. The worst effect which school-tyranny produces, is when it disposes a boy to treat others ill in his turn because he has himself been treated so. – I am not afraid of its producing this effect upon you. But the advantage of having been at such a school, you will feel thro life.
It will not be long before I see you. Meantime I shall send lay the foundation of your historical library by sending you one of the best books in our language, – Lord Clarendons History of the Rebellion.
Your Welsh nieces
and nephew in this household thank God are all well, – & would be very glad to be acquainted with you.
God bless you my dear Edward
Your affectionate cousin
[MS missing]
